We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

670 8-hour HAZWOPER Refresher for Cleanup Operations
Skip to main content

670 8-hour HAZWOPER Refresher for Cleanup Operations

Medical Surveillance

If employees are exposed to hazardous substances during their work, they may need to be monitored to detect medical conditions that could harm them.

Medical surveillance consists of regular medical examinations and consultations for those who may be overexposed to hazardous substances during their work.

The table below shows which employees must have medical surveillance.

Employee Category When a Medical Exam is Required
  • Employees who may be exposed to hazardous substances at or above permissible exposure limits (PELs) or published exposure levels for those substances 30 or more days a year
  • Employees who wear a respirator for 30 or more days a year or who are required by 1910.134, Subdivision 2/I to wear a respirator.
  • Members of HAZMAT teams
  • Before assignment
  • Every 12 months unless the physician recommends a longer interval (not to exceed 24 months)
  • At termination of employment and reassignment
  • Immediately after reporting symptoms indicating overexposure
  • Employees who show symptoms of overexposure to hazardous substances
  • As soon as possible after an employee reports symptoms
  • When a physician determines that an examination is necessary

Keep a record of the examination, including the employee's name and the physician's written opinion regarding the employee's medical fitness to do work or to wear a respirator.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-5. When should a medical exam be performed if an employee begins to show signs of overexposure to a hazardous substance?

Previous Section
Next Section